They can move the pipeline any way they want, present the project in any package they like; the answer will still be no, thanks.
With just two weeks to go before the BC Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO) retires to consider giving a consortium of airlines a certificate to build a jet fuel pipeline through Richmond, city councils position hasnt budged an inch.
The city recently received word that the consortium (Vancouver Airport Fuel Facilities Corporation) has confirmed it will if the project gets the green light from the BCEAO and then provincial ministers route the fuel pipe from an off-loading facility on the south arm of the Fraser River up through Richmond.
Specifically, the pipe would go along an outlying section of Francis Road, then Highway 99, Bridgeport Trail, Van Horne Way, Charles Street and a No. 3 Road right of way.
The BCEAO was holding advisory technical meetings this week with members of the projects working group (which includes the city) to discuss a draft assessment report.
Afterwards, all stakeholders will have until Nov. 9 to submit final comments on what they think of the controversial project, over which the city has little power.
And again on Monday afternoon, its staunch opposition of the project, which would see aviation fuel barged up the south arm, was re-iterated.
In one final show of disapproval, city council agreed to send letters out to all local MLAs, MPs and federal and provincial ministers.
It will also demand a meeting with B.C. Minister of Environment Terry Lake to urge him to consider an alternative solution to the jet fuel supply to YVR.
There remains concerns regarding the potential impacts of spills on the Fraser River and the assumptions built into the risk assessment for such spills and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures, said the citys interim director of sustainability and district energy, Cecilia Achiam, in her report.
Richmond Fire Rescue (RFR) also harbours serious safety concerns over the project and has called for the VAFFC to pay for and maintain a dedicated firehall near the fuel off-loading facility.
RFR said it will also need a fireboat to deal with any marine-based emergencies.
